Hargreaves believes United need to look at themselves to solve their problems (Picture: Getty Images)

Former Manchester United ace Owen Hargreaves believes recruitment is at fault for the club’s failures.

Manager Louis van Gaal has come under the cosh this season for the Red Devils’ performances, but the 35-year-old thinks there isn’t much the Dutchman can do.

Speaking to BT Sport, the ex-England international points the finger at the club’s hierarchy – and presumably executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward – for failing to plan correctly under David Moyes and now van Gaal.

‘I don’t think Manchester United will make a change but first of all it is David Moyes’ fault then it was Louis van Gaal’s fault,’ said Hargreaves.

‘At what point does the club take some responsibility for the fact the way they’ve recruited players.

‘The best players don’t play for Manchester United anymore right now. Some of the best individual players, they’re going to Manchester City, they’re at Chelsea, they’re at Arsenal.

Van Gaal is under increased pressure (Picture: Getty Images)

‘Manchester United need to look at themselves and say what is our direction? How do we want to play? What is our philosophy again?

‘Then they need to start recruiting players to play in that fashion. I think right now in terms of Manchester United being fifth in the Premier league, they play like they’re fifth.

‘I don’t think they’re a team that can compete to win the league, I don’t even think Manchester United fans believe they can win the league or the Champions League and they need to take a step in the right direction but I think right now they are where they are for a reason.’